1
Clear from blame
Show through evidence that a person accused or criticised did not act wrongly.
Example
The recovered correspondence vindicated the official who had denied altering the report.
vindicate
/ˈvɪndɪkeɪt/ · VIN-dih-kaytverb
To free from blame or prove a person, claim, or decision correct.
Use vindicate when later evidence clears someone of criticism or demonstrates that an earlier claim, choice, or prediction was justified.
What vindicate Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Prove a claim correct
Provide evidence that confirms a disputed explanation, prediction, or argument.
Example
Later excavations vindicated the historian's theory about the settlement.
3
Justify a decision
Show through a successful result that an earlier choice or method was reasonable.
Example
The successful trial vindicated the researchers' unconventional approach.
Use vindicate Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The successful trial vindicated the researchers' unconventional approach.
New evidence may vindicate the witness whose account was initially dismissed.
The species' rapid recovery vindicated the decision to protect its breeding grounds.
Precision Matters
Vindicate overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
vindicate
vs.Often proves a disputed person, claim, or decision right after doubt or criticism.
validate
Establishes that a method, result, or claim is sound or acceptable.
vindicate
vs.Can clear blame or prove a position correct.
exonerate
Specifically clears a person from blame or legal responsibility.
vindicate
vs.May establish that an overall claim or judgement was correct.
corroborate
Adds supporting evidence to a statement or account without necessarily settling it.
vindicate
vs.Uses evidence or later results to demonstrate correctness.
justify
Gives reasons showing that an action or belief is reasonable.
Test vindicate in Context
The new evidence shows that a previously disputed account was correct.
1
For decades, scholars criticised Rao's reconstruction of the trade route. Newly catalogued letters matched its dates and locations, appearing to ___ her account.